Pet care partners
Throughout your
dog’s life you will need to turn to someone else to care for your
dog many times. You have options to consider, you
dog might need regular day care because you work long hours and can’t be home to walk or feed him, or you need long-term care because you are going on vacation or work out of town. Some
pets do best in their own home with a
pet sitter, others might do better in a boarding kennel. Consider your
dog’s personality and temperament before making a permanent decision.
Many people, especially in urban areas, are turning to
doggy day care centers. These organizations provide daytime kenneling and activities for “latchkey pups”. Some daycare centers provide kennel and activities facilities which include walks, socializing with other
dogs, visits to
dog parks and hikes. Day care providers often also serve as boarding kennels.
Boarding kennels are usually used for overnight stays, which can last one night to one month or longer. It’s important that you visit the kennel you’re considering before boarding your
dog. A good kennel will welcome you and be happy to show off its facility and other amenities even without notice. Many veterinarians have kennels, where they board clients’
dogs. Many owners, especially those with medical problems feel most secure leaving their
dogs there.
Other owners turn to private kennels, which range from sparse to elaborate. Upscale facilities may offer long walks, provide grooming and interactive playtime. A popular trend is
doggy hotels, where
dogs receive as much pampering as their owners do on their own vacations. These
doggy hotels, boast luxury kennels with everything from raised beds to color tv and soundproofing, and even swimming pools.
Regardless of the boarding facility, the most important consideration is the safety and health of your
dog. After ensuring these most important elements of
dog care, details such as price and extra pampering can be worked out.
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